Psalm 17: To the Just God

Psalm 17
To the Just God

2. Let my vindication come from you; may your eyes see what is right.

4. Though people tried to bribe me, I have kept myself from the ways of the violent through what your lips have commanded.

7. Show me the wonders of your great love, you who save by your right hand those who take refuge in you from their foes.

◇ It seems like David is writing a letter to the just God, pleading his case. He swears that he has lived according to God's words, not like many others. He claims not to have sinned with his lips, to have been cautious, and to have avoided the path of the violent. He could have acted otherwise, but he restrained himself, mindful of God's words.

But God, why is my life so tough? It feels like David is crying out to God. Some people ignore God's words, commit evil, prosper, and pass their wealth to their descendants. They continue their wicked ways through generations.

Is it only David? Is David the only one who feels wronged? Even if we haven't lived as devoutly as David, we haven't harmed others and have tried to live earnestly and quietly. Is the law of the world fair, just, and righteous? People talk about "fairness and common sense," but do they really act that way? The powerful expect others to act with fairness and common sense while they live with exceptions and privileges. So, who can ordinary people rely on and trust?

Just God!

David did not rely on the world's fairness, the world's justice, or its righteousness. Even when he was wronged, fell, and got trapped by his enemies, he relied on God's justice and fairness.

As for me, I will be vindicated and will see your face; when I awake, I will be satisfied with seeing your likeness. (verse 15)

♧ Just God, I rely only on you. Even if the world is not fair and lacks common sense, I cannot live that way. Since you are just and righteous, I will follow you. Even if I struggle and flounder, I will strive to live righteously. Holy Spirit, guide me! Amen.